Georgia 2023 1st Special Session

Georgia Senate Bill SB1

Introduced
11/29/23  
Refer
11/29/23  
Report Pass
11/30/23  
Engrossed
12/1/23  
Report Pass
12/4/23  
Enrolled
12/7/23  
Chaptered
12/8/23  

Caption

"Georgia Senate Redistricting Act of 2023"; enact

Impact

The bill aims to provide a clear framework for the state elections by formally adopting the current district layout unless there are legal impediments to its implementation. This approach intends to ensure that Georgia's electoral landscape remains organized and follows the outlined boundaries until a definitive legal resolution occurs. In the event that the previous redistricting plan remains valid, this new legislation would not take effect, thereby maintaining continuity for the electoral processes.

Summary

Senate Bill 1, referred to as the Georgia Senate Redistricting Act of 2023, is designed to establish the number and composition of senatorial districts ahead of the 2024 elections. The bill outlines that the state will comprise 56 districts, as defined under the legislative framework and keeps the 2021 Senate redistricting plan intact unless a court order deems it unlawful. The act is pivotal as it sets the governing rules for future elections of the Georgia Senate, particularly amidst ongoing legal challenges surrounding previous redistricting efforts.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1 appears to be mixed, reflecting concerns about voter representation and potential implications for democracy in Georgia. Supporters argue that the bill is necessary for providing stability in the electoral process and ensuring that districts are effectively administered for the upcoming elections. Conversely, critics view it as merely a mechanism to navigate around existing legal challenges, raising concerns about the fairness and inclusivity of the redistricting process.

Contention

Contentions surrounding SB1 primarily arise from differing views on how electoral districts should be structured and their direct impact on voter demographics. Opponents worry that the measures may entrench partisan interests, compromising the integrity of voter representation and potentially leading to disenfranchisement. Legal scholars and civil rights advocates have expressed concerns about the adequacy of public input during the redistricting process and the implications of predetermined district layouts for Georgia's electoral fairness.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA SB93

Information Technology; use of certain social media platforms on state equipment; restrict

GA SB443

Abatement of Nuisances; inclusion of claims against promoters and organizers for costs incurred by local governments due to unpermitted events: provide

GA SB385

Georgia Military College; legislative intent language regarding certain postsecondary study beyond the second year level; revise

GA SB223

Health; reimbursement of patient incurred expenses related to participation in a cancer clinical trial; authorize

GA SB32

"Alyssa's Law"

GA SB3

"Georgia Congressional Redistricting Act of 2023"; enact

GA SB406

First Responder Building Mapping Information System; grant program to fund the creation of school mapping data; establish

GA SB341

Official Code of Georgia Annotated; relating to inactive boards, panels, authorities, centers, commissions, committees, councils, task forces, and other such bodies and certain procedures of the General Assembly; repeal

Similar Bills

GA SB3

"Georgia Congressional Redistricting Act of 2023"; enact

GA HB6

Georgia Congressional Redistricting Act of 2023; enact

GA SB4

"Georgia Senate Redistricting Act of 2023"; enact

GA HB5

Georgia House of Representatives Redistricting Act of 2023; enact

GA HB1

Georgia House of Representatives Redistricting Act of 2023; enact

GA HR371

2025 Georgia Single Parent "Legacy Builders" Recognition and Award finalists, "Overcomer Founder" Award, "Ruth Brewster Endurance" Award, and Historian Award recipients for their achievements; commend

GA SR436

2025 Georgia Single Parent "Legacy Builders" Recognition and Awards finalists; recognize

GA HR505

Laotian American community in Georgia; honoring Airavata flag; commend